How AFM® prevents biofilm formation

Struggling to prevent biofilm formation even with high chlorine usage and regular backwashing? Try using AFM® (Activated Filter Media) to create an exceptionally clean swimming experience.

On top of having many other benefits, AFM® also has anti-biofilm properties – which helps to prevent that unappealing and unhygienic layer of bacteria, fungi, and algae from forming on top of various pool surfaces.

AFM® anti-biofilm properties

According to Dryden Aqua, AFM® has been specially manufactured to be 100% bio-resistant – unlike alternative filter media solutions such as sand and Diatomaceous Earth (DE). AFM® prevents biofilm formation by:

Generating free radicals

AFM® can generate free radicals catalytically on its activated surface when water and dissolved oxygen flow over. It does this by transforming water molecules and oxygen into oxygen and hydroxyl radicals (O and OH). Thanks to their strong oxidation potential, these radicals then kill bacteria and create a self-sterilising effect that prevents it from colonising and growing biofilm.

Having a strong negative charge

AFM®'s strong negative charge helps to repel both organic molecules and bacteria, preventing the initial attachment phase required for to create biofilm.

Possessing hydrophobic properties

AFM® has also been specially designed to feature hydrophobic properties as this helps the material to target non-polar pollutants, such as microplastics, fats, proteins, oils, and hydrocarbons, further deterring biological build-up.

Why is it important to combat biofilm formation in pools?

There are both user and operational benefits to preventing biofilm formation in pools, including:

Supports pool hygiene: As biofilms can contain a variety of microorganisms (such as bacteria, fungi, algae, and debris like trapped dirt, oils, skin flakes) preventing biofilms in pools helps to keep the water much cleaner and more hygienic.

Reduces maintenance: Removing biofilms from swimming pools often involves a lot of physical scraping of the affected surfaces to break open the protective outer layer before chemicals are introduced to shock the water. AFM® stops this biofilm from forming in the first place, reducing maintenance needs.

Improves user experience: No swimming pool user wants to feel a slimy and sticky layer of film over the pool walls when taking a dip. Halting biofilm preventing ensures a more enjoyable user experience.

Helps to protect the filter: In swimming pool filtration systems that utilise sand filter media, the slimy and sticky nature of biofilm can cause the sand to clump together, impacting the filtration performance.

Lowers disinfectant demand: With bacteria no longer being able to hide behind a protective biofilm layer, chlorine and other pool chemicals used to disinfect the water can be used more efficiently.